Merry Christmas from The Hidden City Podcast! In this special bonus episode, we journey into the heart of Oak Cliff's coffee scene with Shannon Neffendorf, the founder of Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters. Shannon shares his incredible story of how a childhood memory of drinking coffee with his grandfather and a love for Italian coffee culture inspired him to create a coffee business rooted in quality and community. We also dive into Shannon's ventures into bread, chocolate, and his vision for sustainable, community-driven food production.

In Episode 14, we sit down with artist, designer, and visionary Gary Buckner, founder of Stash Design. Known for transforming reclaimed materials into functional art, Gary has left his mark on iconic Oak Cliff spaces like Wild Detectives, Davis Street Espresso, and Tyler Station.

We discuss his unique approach to design, his passion for preserving history through sustainable craftsmanship, and his vision for the future of architecture and wellness-focused spaces. Join us for a conversation about creativity, community, and how intentional design can shape the places we live, work, and gather.

In this episode, we sit down with artist, designer, and creative visionary Temi Coker. From his early days in Lagos, Nigeria, to making an impact in Oak Cliff, Temi shares how his journey shaped his artistic style and his passion for merging photography and graphic design. We explore his collaborations with major brands like Nike and Adobe, his commitment to amplifying Black voices, and his vision for building community through creative spaces like TX Studio. Join us for an inspiring conversation about identity, purpose, and the power of art to bring people together.

In this week's episode, we speak with Bettina Bennett, an entrepreneur, accidental technologist, and 30-year Oak Cliff resident, shares her journey from Germany to Texas and her love for the unique spirit of Oak Cliff. Bettina discusses her career milestones, including founding a technology company and initiating the Women in Technology Awards, and her commitment to community-driven change. From painting over graffiti to championing diversity, Bettina embodies the philosophy of questioning boundaries and taking small actions to make a significant impact. Tune in for an exploration of leadership, resilience, and the heart of a neighborhood that defines her identity.

In episode 11, we sit down with JR Huerta, founder of Dallas Youth Sports and District 1 representative on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board. JR shares the journey of turning a small volunteer-run baseball program into a thriving multi-sport organization serving thousands of kids. We also dive into his work organizing Oak Cliff’s annual Mardi Gras parade, his commitment to family-led leadership, and the lasting impact of Dallas Youth Sports on generations of kids and their families.

In episode 10, we dive into the life and work of Monte Anderson—developer, visionary, and lifelong advocate for Oak Cliff. Monte shares his journey from motocross racer to shaping iconic projects like Tyler Station and the Belmont Hotel. We explore his unwavering commitment to Southern Dallas, his principles of “gentlefication,” and how he’s fostering walkable, multi-generational communities. With decades of experience and a deep love for Oak Cliff, Monte reveals how building with purpose creates a legacy that transcends generations.

In episode 9, we welcome chef and owner Skye McDaniel of La Bodega in Oak Cliff’s Bishop Arts. Skye shares the journey of building a food-centric community space, inspired by her Sicilian family roots, love for travel, and commitment to ethical food sourcing. From hosting beloved “Sunday Suppers” to creating a space where intentionality meets hospitality, Skye dives into the challenges and rewards of sticking to her values in an industry driven by convenience. Join us for a deep look into how she’s built La Bodega as a neighborhood haven, fostering connections over every meal.

In episode 8, we welcome photographer Richard Doherty whose book Framing Oak Cliff offers a deeply personal visual diary of this vibrant Dallas neighborhood. Over 40 years, Richard has documented Oak Cliff’s ever-changing streets, capturing candid panoramas, quiet neighborhood scenes, and the small, often-overlooked details that define daily life. In this conversation, Richard shares his journey, revealing the stories behind his favorite shots, his unique techniques, and the inspiration that Oak Cliff provides. Join us for an exploration of Oak Cliff’s lasting impact on Richard’s work and the heart of the community as seen through his lens.

In episode 7, we sit down with Jimmy Contreras, the visionary behind Taco Y Vino and LadyLove, to explore how he’s crafted Oak Cliff’s ultimate “third place”—a welcoming spot that’s as perfect for locals as it is for out-of-town guests. Jimmy shares insights into the spirit of Oak Cliff, the power of communal spaces, and how his team’s dedication has helped Taco Y Vino become a North Texas favorite. From pandemic pivots to the art of pairing tacos and wine, Jimmy’s journey reflects Oak Cliff’s unique blend of resilience, warmth, and community connection.